REVIEW : PHANTOM 5 / Phantom 5 (2016)

Michael Voss (Casanova, Bonfire, Mad Max) and Claus Lessmann (Bonfire) are both very very talented musicians and they both have released some killer records during their career. Nowadays, these two artists are joining forces to create t heir next big thing which is called PHANTOM 5. Apart fromLessman and Voss, the band, also, consists of the amazing Robby Boebel on guitars, Francis Buchholz on bass guitar and Axel Kruse on drums.

The result of this collaboration is this truly solid and inspired record that recalls to classic albums such as Bonfire's "Point Blank", Casanova's debut and a bit of Frontline's earlier works. Plus a strong dose of Jaded Heart (Bormann era) and there you have a great opus all the way. The vocals of Lessmann are strong, passionate and heart-full, Boebel's sharp and inspired guitar is the cherry on top and the rhythm section strong as a rock.

Every single tune here rocks in an old-fashioned way and is heavenly influenced by the above mentioned bands. The U.S. elements are givin' the extra push to the final result and, in my opinion, there is no filler in sight. Songs like "Blue Dog", "All The Way", "Someday" and "They Won't Come Back" are perfect samples of PHANTOM 5's music; catchy, melodious, with amazing guitar licks, strong arrangements and powerful performances. There is a strong early Bonfire-vibe all over the album ('cause of Lessmann's vocals) that's making this debut a must have for each and every single fan of this legendary German band.

For sure, this album rocks big time! Classic melodic hard rock stuff at its best! Don't miss this one! 

Rating : 8/10

Track Listing :
01. All The Way
02. Blue Dog
03. Someday
04. Don't Touch The Night
05. Renegade
06. Flying High
07. Since You're Gone
08. They Won't Come Back
09. Frontline
10. We Both Had Our Time
11. Why